VIENTIANE, June 20 (Xinhua) -- Laos' Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism will roll out a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening the tourism sector, attracting more visitors, and boosting national revenue.

According to Lao National TV on Friday, the ministry will focus on improving access to tourist sites, upgrading transport and facilities to meet both national and international standards, and ensuring a safe, clean, and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Key priorities include enhancing infrastructure and transportation within and around major tourist destinations, as well as diversifying tourism offerings through greater involvement of local communities and the private sector. The government also aims to strengthen the management of popular tourist towns and improve service quality by aligning with ASEAN and national tourism standards.

To boost visibility, promotional efforts will be expanded across various media platforms, ensuring accurate and timely information reaches a broad audience. In support of economic growth, the government will promote the adoption of digital payment systems to encourage domestic currency circulation, while also modernizing border checkpoints to streamline entry procedures for travelers.

The ministry will also encourage closer cooperation with tourism associations and neighboring countries, and review visa policies to enhance accessibility for international visitors. These comprehensive efforts are part of a broader strategy to position Laos as a more attractive, competitive, and sustainable tourism destination within the region.

From January to March 2025, Laos welcomed 1,262,035 foreign tourists, marking an 11 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. Meanwhile, domestic tourism experienced a remarkable surge, with 1,467,886 local travelers recorded, a 98.6 percent rise compared to the same period last year. ■